There’s a certain magic to holding a piece of history. For many of us, the iconic Thompson submachine gun represents a pivotal era, a symbol of American resolve from the streets of Chicago to the battlefields of World War II. I’ve always wanted to experience shooting one, but the reality of owning a genuine .45 ACP original is a dream reserved for a select few. That’s what started my search: finding a replica that wasn’t just a plastic toy, but something that could deliver the weight, the feel, and at least a fraction of the exhilarating shooting experience of the real “Chicago Typewriter.”
- 30-shot, .177 caliber BB air pistol with realistic blowback action; Semi-auto and full-auto shooting modes
- Powered by a 12-gram CO2 cartridge (CO2 not included)
What to Consider Before Buying a Full-Auto Replica Air Rifle
Before you dive into the world of historical air gun replicas, it’s important to know what you’re getting into. This isn’t your childhood single-pump BB gun. The ideal owner for the Umarex Thompson M1A1 Full-Auto .177 Co2 Blowback Air Rifle is a history enthusiast, a collector, or simply someone who wants the most fun possible while plinking cans in the backyard. Key factors to consider are authenticity, performance, and operational cost. You should look for a heavy, all-metal construction that mimics the original’s heft. Performance-wise, the main draw is a realistic blowback and a thrilling full-auto mode. Finally, be prepared for the CO2 consumption; full-auto fire is thirsty work, and these rifles often use dual CO2 cartridges. If you value historical accuracy and an unparalleled fun factor over pinpoint precision or hunting capability, then a replica like this is an excellent choice. After extensive testing, we believe the Umarex Thompson M1A1 stands as a brilliant example of a replica done right.
While the Umarex Thompson M1A1 Full-Auto .177 Co2 Blowback Air Rifle is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
- The GAMO Swarm Whisper Air Rifle features the IGT (Inert Gas Technology) piston that allows higher velocity, less vibration and a longer lifespan than...
- DURABLE, WATER PROOF SYNTHETIC DESIGN - With rifled steel barrel, built-in BB reservoir and side-load pellet chamber
Unboxing a Legend: First Impressions and Key Features
The moment we lifted the Umarex Thompson M1A1 Full-Auto .177 Co2 Blowback Air Rifle from its box, we were floored. This is no toy. The all-metal construction gives it a substantial, realistic weight that feels just right in your hands. One user noted, “With a quick look you cannot tell it from a real M1A1,” and we couldn’t agree more. The faux-wood stock and grips are surprisingly convincing, avoiding the cheap plastic look that plagues so many replicas. The controls—the safety switch, the fire selector flipping crisply between semi and full-auto—all operate with a satisfying mechanical click. The hefty drop-free magazine houses both the 30-round BB reservoir and the dual 12g CO2 cartridges, adding to the overall realism. Our initial impression was simple: wow. Umarex has crafted a stunning work of art that demands to be fired.
What We Like
- Authentic all-metal construction and substantial weight for a true-to-life feel.
- Exhilarating full-auto mode with crisp blowback action.
- Surprisingly good accuracy for a smoothbore BB rifle at plinking distances.
- Impressive visual realism, down to the faux-wood furniture.
What We Didn’t Like
- The rear peep sight is fixed and cannot be adjusted for windage or elevation.
- High CO2 consumption, requiring two cartridges for about 100 shots.
- Some user reports raise concerns about long-term durability with heavy use.
Performance Under Fire: A Deep Dive into the Thompson M1A1
A beautiful replica is one thing, but performance is what truly matters. We put the Umarex Thompson M1A1 Full-Auto .177 Co2 Blowback Air Rifle through its paces to see if the shooting experience lived up to its legendary looks. The short answer? Absolutely.
Build Quality and Realism
We can’t overstate the quality of the build here. The full-metal receiver and barrel assembly contribute to an 8-pound weight that feels incredibly close to the original firearm. The controls are not just for show; they function just as you’d expect. The open-bolt blowback action is the star of the show. With every shot, the bolt cycles back with a satisfying metallic clack, providing a tangible recoil that makes semi-auto shooting engaging and full-auto an absolute riot. As one user aptly put it, the “stocks look terrific and the feel is that of a real Thompson.” It’s a perfect piece for collectors or for use in historical photoshoots.
Shooting Modes and Rate of Fire
Flipping the selector switch to full-auto is where the giggling begins. We, like many users, were shocked by the rate of fire. One reviewer perfectly captured the feeling: “The rate of fire really surprised me with the first magazine.” It will empty its 30-round magazine in a matter of seconds, creating a cloud of CO2 and a sound that is guaranteed to put a smile on your face. Semi-auto mode is equally effective and much more conservative with BBs and CO2, allowing for more deliberate shots. During our tests, the rifle cycled flawlessly through multiple magazines without a single jam, a sentiment echoed by a user who “went through 6 co2 tanks and the gun never jammed.”
Accuracy and Sights
For a smoothbore .177 caliber BB rifle, the accuracy is more than adequate for backyard plinking. We had no trouble consistently hitting soda cans from 15-20 yards. Another user reported being able to “punch holes in soda cans from 50 yards,” which is impressive. However, this brings us to the rifle’s most significant drawback: the fixed rear peep sight. Our test model shot slightly high and to the left, and with no way to adjust the sight, we had to compensate our aim. This was a common complaint, with one user noting their rifle was off by “two clicks right and four clicks up!” if it were adjustable. You learn to “gestimate and shoot,” but adjustable sights would have been a welcome addition.
Magazine and CO2 Consumption
The heart of the rifle is its 30-round magazine, which houses two 12g CO2 cartridges. Loading the BBs and CO2 is straightforward. As you’d expect, full-auto is thirsty. Our findings align perfectly with user reports: expect to get about three full magazines (90-100 shots) before the CO2 pressure drops significantly. For this reason, we strongly agree with the user who recommended getting “another mag to keep the fun going.” Having a second one loaded and ready to go dramatically reduces downtime. If you plan on doing a lot of shooting, investing in bulk CO2 cartridges and BBs alongside the Umarex Thompson M1A1 is a wise move.
What Other Users Are Saying
Across the board, the user consensus for the Umarex Thompson M1A1 Full-Auto .177 Co2 Blowback Air Rifle can be summed up in one word: “fun.” One owner stated, “After watching the videos on YouTube of people shooting this and giggling like little girls, I just had to buy it,” which perfectly captures the rifle’s primary appeal. Many praise its stunning realism and heavy, satisfying feel. However, the feedback isn’t universally perfect. Several users confirm our findings about the fixed rear sight being a notable drawback. More concerning are a few reports about long-term reliability, with one experienced Umarex customer stating their automatic rifles “last about a month before you have to send it back and get it fixed.” While our test unit performed without a hitch, prospective buyers should be aware that this is a complex mechanical replica best suited for recreational use rather than rigorous, constant firing.
How Does It Compare? The Top 3 Alternatives
While the Thompson M1A1 is a fantastic historical replica, it might not be for everyone. Here’s how it stacks up against other popular air rifles with different purposes.
1. Crosman 760X Pump Master .177-Caliber Pellet/BB Air Rifle with Scope
- SINGLE-SHOT, BOLT-ACTION PELLET AND BB AIR RIFLE
- DURABLE, WATER RESISTANT DESIGN - Brown with smooth bore steel barrel
The Crosman 760X Pump Master is a classic for a reason. It represents a completely different category of air rifle. Where the Thompson is a heavy, CO2-powered, full-auto replica for adult enthusiasts, the 760X is a lightweight, multi-pump pneumatic rifle ideal for beginners or younger shooters. It’s more versatile, capable of shooting both BBs and pellets, and its power source is human effort, eliminating the ongoing cost of CO2. If you’re looking for an affordable, simple rifle for target practice or introducing someone to shooting, the Crosman is a better choice. The Thompson is for pure, unadulterated fun and historical appreciation.
2. Gamo Silent Cat .177 Breakbarrel Pellet Air Rifle with 4×32 Scope
- VELOCITY: .Shoots .177 Caliber pellets up to 1200 FPS (1000 FPS Lead)
- PROPULSION: Breakbarrel Spring Piston Single Shot
The Gamo Silent Cat is a purpose-built tool for quiet pest control and small game hunting. It’s a single-shot, break-barrel pellet rifle that fires at a much higher velocity than the Thompson. Its noise dampener and included scope are designed for precision and stealth. The Thompson, with its loud blowback action and full-auto BB spray, is the polar opposite. Choose the Gamo for serious, quiet pest removal. Choose the Thompson when you want to make some noise and shred some cans.
3. DPMS SBR Full Auto CO2 BB Air Gun
- FULL SIZE, REAL FEEL, DUAL ACTION - Durable synthetic design and up to 1400 rounds per minute
- FUELED BY (2) 12-GRAM CO2 CARTRIDGES - Delivers speeds up to 430 fps (CO2 cartridges not included)
This is the Thompson’s closest spiritual competitor. The DPMS SBR offers a similar experience—full-auto, CO2-powered, blowback BB action—but wrapped in a modern, tactical AR-style package. It boasts an even higher rate of fire and features like an adjustable stock and flip-up sights. The choice between the DPMS and the Thompson comes down purely to aesthetic preference. Do you want the iconic, historical feel of a WWII submachine gun, or the tactical, modular appeal of a modern sporting rifle? Both deliver an incredible amount of fun.
Our Final Verdict: Is the Umarex Thompson M1A1 Worth It?
After extensive hands-on testing, we can say with confidence that the Umarex Thompson M1A1 Full-Auto .177 Co2 Blowback Air Rifle is a phenomenal replica that delivers an experience unlike any other. Its stunning realism, all-metal construction, and the sheer joy of its full-auto blowback action make it a must-have for history buffs, collectors, and anyone looking for the most fun a BB gun can provide. While the fixed sight is a notable flaw and CO2 consumption is high, these are small prices to pay for the ear-to-ear grin it produces. It’s not a hunter or a precision target rifle; it’s a time machine and a pure fun machine, and it excels at being both.
If you’ve decided the Umarex Thompson M1A1 Full-Auto .177 Co2 Blowback Air Rifle is the right fit, you can check its current price and get one for yourself here.
Last update on 2025-10-07 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API